Great Composers Course: The Life and Music of Chopin

Music. Learn, enjoy, appreciate.

Chopin’s music has delighted music lovers for nearly two centuries. Perhaps no other composer is so closely associated with the piano, newly finding its voice in Chopin’s time. His too-short life had its own drama and turmoil, with his exile from Poland, his battle with illness, and his relationship with French authoress George Sand.

This one-day music course explores the life and music of Chopin. We will explore what makes his music so special, so rich and so innovative. We will listen to some of his greatest works, and also some lesser-known and under-appreciated ones. We also delve into the story of his life, his background, his struggles and his triumphs.

No prior musical knowledge is necessary.

Outcomes

By the end of this course, you should be able to:

identify some aspects of Chopin’s musical style

describe how Chopin’s music is related to the Romantic period

identify some of the genres of music composed by Chopin

list some of Chopin’s major works, and describe their place in his musical output

list some significant events in the life of Chopin.

Content

Topics we will cover:

What do we think of when we think of Chopin?

Chopin’s place in music history

Chopin’s musical style: what makes Chopin sound like Chopin

The Romantic period: Music in Chopin’s time

Major events in the life of Chopin

Chopin’s early years in Poland

Trips to Berlin and Vienna

Early love: Constantia Gladkowska

Making a name in Paris

Engagement to Maria Wodzinski

Chopin’s illness

Relationship with George Sand

Chopin’s last years

Music we will listen to:

We will listen to many Chopin compositions, including:

Piano Concertos Nos. 1 and 2

Preludes, Op. 28 (1836-1839), including No. 15, "Raindrop"

Etude in C minor, Op. 10, No. 12, "Revolutionary"

Etude in A flat major, Op. 25 No. 1

Waltz No. 9 in A flat, Op. posth. 69, No. 1, "Farewell"

Waltz No. 6 in D flat major, Op. 64, No. 1, "Minute Waltz"

Nocturne No. 2 in E flat major, Op. 9 No. 2

Fantasie-Impromptu in C# minor, Op. 66

Polonaise No. 3 in A major, Op. 40, No. 1, "Military"

Polonaise No. 6 in A flat major, Op. 53, "Heroic"

Berceuse in D flat major, Op. 57

Mazurka No. 23 in D major, Op. 33, No. 2

Ballade No. 4 in F minor, Op. 52

Intended audience

Designed for those who are interested in and enjoy listening to classical music and piano music, beginners and experienced listeners alike. No prior musical knowledge is required.

Delivery style

Lecture/seminar style. Questions from participants will be encouraged, with room for discussion throughout the course.

Materials

Handouts will be provided in class.

Features

Expert trainers

Central locations

Small class sizes

Free, expert advice

Student materials – yours to keep

Statement of completion

Sessions:

Location:

Tutors:

Price:

Great Composers Course: The Life and Music of Chopin

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